Week One

Ireland lost 41-23 to France in the World Cup quarter-final, but I do think Eddie O'Sullivan's side can go to Paris and win on Saturday.

The key thing is to be within shouting distance of them for the first 20-30 minutes of the game.

Depending on the way they turn up, France can be blistering like they were in that World Cup match. They can do extraordinary things, and can pull away very quickly.

But if Ireland keep close in that vital half-hour period, France will start to have doubts.

The other vital thing is for Ireland to keep their discipline, because Frederic Michalak would punish them with his penalty kicking. France scored four tries against us in Melbourne, but it was Michalak who tore us apart with his 23 points.

It's quite a different France team to the one we met back in November, because of retirements and injuries.

One of the newcomers, uncapped hooker William Servat, is a good player, but it's whether he has a good lineout throw that could be important. Ireland's front five has good experience and the pack would hope to apply pressure and steal some ball in the lineout and scrum.

Brian O'Driscoll's injury means a chance for Gordon D'Arcy at centre. Brian should be back for the next game, so this could be a tough one-off opportunity for Gordon, but I think he can cope with the pressure.

I've watched him play brilliantly this season and his talent's there for all to see.

Paul O'Connell, who replaces Brian as captain, will be a key player. He's very fast on the ground, and both he and Malcolm O'Kelly spend a lot of time analysing what the opposition's going to do in all situations.

After losing their Under-20s Six Nations crown to England Under-20s in a thrilling final round, France Under-20s lock Tristan Labouteley insists his side will be out for revenge at this year's Junior World Championship.